Coco Mell Unpicks her Fashion Styling Journey, Creative Process and Iconic Inspirations
Don’t miss the chance to attend Coco’s styling workshop with Timberland this month.
Coco Mell’s rise to a successful fashion styling and curation career was a witnessed feat by many. Starting from the sneaker industry, the London-based stylist embarked on building her portfolio with a Scandinavian footwear retailer and soon after, as a sportswear stylist. Her journey also saw her share unfiltered advice on the Sole Intent podcast with co-host Joelah Noble. But, when Coco took a leap into freelancing, she rocketed to curating outfits for global figureheads and brands.
With her foot still firmly in the footwear industry, Timberland hit up the stylist to celebrate the art of styling and share her fountain of expertise with aspiring designers and stylists. To get a wide-angled view of the scene, Coco sat down with fellow fashion creative Veneda Carter last month, where they exchanged the tips and tricks behind the trade.
Now, as she prepares to host her first workshop with the brand, the streetwear enthusiast stops by to share what she’s learned and how she aims to push the boundaries of her career even further. Keep reading to find out more.
Hypebae: What does being bold mean to you and how do you channel this everyday?
Coco Mell: Bold is me authentically being Coco, no apologies or excuses. Being bold isn’t something that I’m consciously aware of. From what I’ve been told, it’s my tenacious approach to my work, how & what I style – coupled with my personal look whether that be my blonde hair, fresh footwear or wardrobe choices.
Tell us a bit about some of the fashion icons who have inspired your striking style choices?
Alike most ‘90s babies, I feel that the US hip hop/R&B stars of that era are always going to be G.O.A.T’s, from Aaliyah, Left Eye Lopez, N.E.R.D alongside any Hype Williams music video, Missy Elliot banger or a Diddy ft Mase track. I loved those super baggy but glossy looks!
Timberland
Timberland
Timberland
Timberland
Timberland
What does the new Timberland Sky Boot represent to you?
It represents elevation in more ways than one! The higher platform mid-sole being one, or the new age take on the classic, signature 6-inch boot – including the double stitching on the upper and black out sole across all colorways, that’s bold in itself!
How would you incorporate the Sky Boot into your everyday style?
For me, it definitely has a place in my autumn into winter footwear rotation for the simple fact it’s providing fashionable stability. I’d feel confident venturing through snowy terrain in these for sure.
How do you think being boldly individual lends itself to unique creativity?
It can set you apart from the crowd, especially in the creative/fashion industry. There’s so many people vying for the same ‘claim to fame’ or that verified blue tick, so in order to carve out your own niche lane you’ve got to stay centered and grounded in who you are as an individual. Whether or not you conform to social or even peer standards, who cares!
Which unsung heroes making bold moves should we be following?
Without a doubt it’d have to be my protégée and creative mentee Miss Britini Campbell, whose talent knows no bounds! From being a dab hand behind a sewing machine, to whipping up baddie hairstyles for the gworls and not to mention being alongside me through the highs and lows that being a young, black business owner exposes me to.
Timberland
Timberland
Timberland
Timberland
Timberland
Give us a brief overview of how you approach styling your clients?
Every brief is different as I work with a range of music artists, athletes & brands. So, my approach for each has to be fresh. Typically, the first step is always to do my research and this means I take a deep dive and immerse myself in their world. Then, I try to see what point of difference I could offer coming onboard, once I’ve isolated that I like to try and touch base with the client. If all goes well, then we get to work, which usually sees me curate a moodboard and present it back. Finally, I bring the collective vision to life – and magic is created!
How do you bring out an element of boldness in your clients’ style while honoring their personality?
Comfort is always at the heart of any pull or purchase I make, because who doesn’t want to be cozy in the fit they’re in? Once I’ve achieved that, I ask myself if they’d like it. With my styling I’m all about pushing not only a client’s expectation of what I’m going to deliver but also, their parameters and just allow them a fresh perspective of having options they never envisioned possible for them.
What advice would you share to those who want to pursue a career in styling others?
This game is definitely not for the faint-hearted, weak-skinned or mild-mannered. That may sound harsh to some but that’s honestly a Fendi fact! I’d also ensure that you have a great circle of friends, peers or family who are able to support you through this rollercoaster of doubt and uncertainty that can at times creep in. But if you keep your head down, don’t get easily led or influenced and stay true to yourself – that should set you up for a prosperous career.
Discover and shop the Timberland Sky Collection online now. To learn more about the in-and-outs of fashion styling, sign up to Timberland’s masterclass with Coco Mell at Carnaby.
